Russia has formally asked the United States to consider restoring direct flights and reopening US airspace to Russian aircraft. The request was made during a recent meeting in Istanbul between diplomats from both countries. The US acknowledged the talks but did not confirm any immediate steps toward reviving air traffic.
A Diplomatic Meeting in Istanbul
On Thursday, representatives from Russia and the United States met in Istanbul to address longstanding tensions and obstacles affecting their diplomatic missions. According to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conversation centered on “ways to overcome numerous ‘irritants’ inherited from previous American administrations.”
The ministry emphasized the need for practical progress, stating, “The need for practical results aimed at creating conditions for improving bilateral relations in the interests of the peoples of our countries was particularly emphasized.” A key item on Russia’s agenda was reopening the skies between the two nations: “In concrete terms, the American side was asked to consider the possibility of restoring direct air traffic.”
Fallout from the War in Ukraine
Direct flights between the US and Russia were halted after the start of Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and in response to the aggression, Western allies, including the US, Canada, and the European Union, banned Russian aircraft from their airspace.
Russia retaliated by closing its own airspace to multiple countries. However, many Western carriers had already ceased operations over Russian skies before the restrictions came into force. The suspension of these routes disrupted travel and air logistics, affecting families, businesses, and diplomatic exchanges.
The US Response: Vague but Open
Following the meeting, the US released a statement acknowledging the discussions but avoided referencing the flight request. The statement described the talks as “constructive discussions,” signaling a possible willingness to continue dialogue but leaving the outcome uncertain.
The omission has left observers wondering whether Washington is open to reestablishing direct routes or if the subject remains off-limits due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
While Russia has officially expressed interest in resuming direct air travel with the US, there has been no confirmation or commitment from the American side. The talks in Istanbul may represent a small step toward rebuilding dialogue, but significant policy shifts remain unlikely unless broader issues—such as the war in Ukraine—are resolved. Until then, the skies between the two countries remain politically clouded.